California Chrome allowed to wear nasal strip at Belmont

California Chrome will be allowed to wear a nasal strip that helps with breathing. (Bill Frakes/Sports Illustrated)

Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner California Chrome will be allowed to wear a nasal strip at the Belmont Stakes in his bid to become the first horse in 36 years to win the Triple Crown, the New York Racing Association announced.

New York Racing Association made the decision Monday after saying they were bound by the rules of the commission, which state the only equipment specifically approved by the stewards shall be worn or carried by a jockey or a horse in a race.

California Chrome trainer Art Sherman said he would be disappointed if the horse was not allowed to wear the strip. Sherman said he wasn't aware that using one in New York would be a problem.

"We are extremely excited that California Chrome will be coming to Belmont Park in his quest to become thoroughbred racing's 12th Triple Crown winner on Saturday, June 7," Chris Kay, President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York Racing Association said in a statement.

California Chrome has worn a nasal strip during his current six-race winning streak after co-owner Perry Martin wanted to try it. If the commission had decided to disallow the strip, it would have placed Chrome's Triple Crown bid in jeopardy.

No horse has won the Triple Crown since Affirmed in 1978, and 12 horses since have won the first two legs and failed to win the crown.

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